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FROM 

HAROLD BELL WRIGHT'S 

FAMOUS NOVEL 



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REPRODUCED IN PLAY FORM 

BY E. R. ADAMS 
NEW HAMPTON. MISSOURI 



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WRITTEN Especially For High Schools and Colleges 
Prices on request 



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CAST OF CHARACTERS. 

Dr .Oldham — Old doctor of Corinth. 

Martha — His wife, active worker in Ladies' Aid. 

Denny Mulhall — Crippled Irish boy (a gardener). 

Mrs. Mulhall — Denny's widowed mother. 

Dan Matthews — The Minister of Corinth. 

Hope Farwell — A trained nurse. 

Mam Liz — A negro servant. 

Dr. Abbott — The young physician of Corinth. 

Grace Conner — An outcast (a good girl with a bad reputation.) 

Judge Strong — Member of the official board of Strong Memorial 

Church. 
Elder Jordan — Also member of the church board. 

COSTUMES MODERN. 



REPRODUCED BY E. R. ADAMS. 

New Hampton, Missouri. 

Copyrighted 1919. 



SYNOPSIS OF THE PLAY. 
ACT I. 

SCENE— DR. OLDHAMS HOME IN CORINTH. 

TIME— MORNING. 

Dan Mstthews, a young man from the Ozark regions, is called to 
preach for a church in Corinth. Dr. Oldham, who is not a church 
member, is the confidential friend of Dan. Dr. Oldham has two call- 
ers before Dan arrives. They are Denny Mulha!!, a crippled Irish 
boy, who helps support his widowed mother by gardening, and Grace 
Conner, a good girl with a bad reputation. 'Elder Jordan and Judge 
Strong, who are of the oid school, are the official board and are look- 
ing for heresy. All meet Dan at the station. Jud Hardy, the town 
bully, attacks Denny Mulhall and seriously injures him. Dan rushes 
in and gives him the thrashing he deserves. Hope Farwell, a trained 
nurse, arrives on the scene and the procession carries Denny to Dr. 
Oldham's home. Everyone wonders, "Who is he?" Who are they?" 

ACT 11. 

SCENE— GRACE CONNER'S HOr.lE. 

TIME— EARLY MORNING. 
Grace Conner tries to commit suicide. Mam Liz, a negro v/oman 
rushes in and, seeing the girl, sends for Dr. Abbott. An antidote Is 
given and Grace lives. Dr. Abbott sends for Miss Farwell. She takes 
the case. Meanwhile, Dan Matthews, the minister, calls, and, bitterly, 
r/.ics Farwell tells him, "This is the result of the church's work." 

ACT III. 

SCENE— MRS. MULHALL'S HOME. 

TIME-^MORNING. 

Mrs. Mulhall is weeping because tomorrow Judge Strong is to 
foreclose the mortgage on their iittie home. Hope Farwell, who with 
Grace Conner has rented rooms of Mrs. Muihall, tries to comfort her. 
Dan calls in and learns that he has new neighbors. Hope and Dan 
have a heart to heart talk and he tells her he loves her. She refuses to 
oe his wife as long as he is in the ministry, oudge Strong comes to 
claim the Mulhall home and Dan tells him that he is an unrcputable 
thief; that he can prove that the mortgage has been paid. Hot words 
follow and Dan tells him that he will give him until tomorrow night 
to return the mortgage and interest paid to Mrs. Mulhall. 

ACT IV. 

SCENE— DAN'S STUDY. 

TIME— AT NIGHT. 

Dan tries to work out his sermon on "The Christian Ministry" but 
fails. Dr. Abbott and Dr. Oldham call, and they have a confidential 
chat. Just as Dr. Abbott leaves, Elder Jordan calls to plead Brother 
Strong's case. He wishes to cover up the theft because Judge Strong 
is an elder in Memorial church. He also notifies Dan that his ser- 
vices are no longer desired. Judge Strong pays a call to return the 
papers. He is very impudent and when Dan asks him to retract the 
slanderous words against Hope Farwell, which he uttered, he refuses. 
Dan beats him lifeless. Dr. Oldham, chuckling, offers to take him 
home and report an accident. Dan declares his intention of making 
Hope Farwell his wife and returning home to serve mankind in other 
ways, and to travel "The Trail That Is Nobody Knows How Old." 



3 ii^'ro 
NOV 17 1920 



THE CALLING 01^ DAN MATTHEWS 3 

Act I. 

SCENE — Living room in Dr. Oldham's home, furnished with old 
fashioned furniture. An old lounge with patchwork quilt is across one 
corner of the room. Rag carpet covers the floor. An old fashioned 
stand table with red cover holds a large vase filled with the doctor's 
i.v iitc roses. A fishing outfit stands in one corner. Religious pict- 
ures are very prominent on the wall. 

Dr. OI::f;a!>i ic ccatod w. u:t ency chsir,. cirsoklnj a huge pipe, as the 
curtain rises. 

Dr. Oldham — (deeply meditating). His life — his life is like this 
day, frenh and clean and — full of possibilities. 

(Enter Mai/iha attired in breakfast dress and cap). 

[Martha — (disgustedly). Whatever are you muttering about now? 

Dr. Oldham — I was wishing that I — that it would always be morn- 
ing, that there was no such thing as afternoon, evening and night. , 

Martha — For a man of your age you do say the most idiotic things, 
wont you ever get old enough to think seriously? 

Dr. Oldham — (smiling). If it were always morning, I would al- 
ways be making love to the best and prettiest girl in the state. 

Martha — (taking a chair and answering flashingly). There's no 
Lool like an old fool. 

Dr. Oldham^-But a young fool gets so much more out of his fool- 
ishness. Talk about the responsibilities of age — hump! They are noth- 
ing compared to the responsibilities of youth. There's Dan now — 

Martha — (interrupting all in a flutter). My goodness me, yes; and 
I've got a week's work to do before I can ever begin to get dinner. 
You go right off this minute and kill three of these young roosters out 
there in the coop— THREE MIND YOU. 

Dr. Oldham — But my dear, he will only be here for dinner. 

Martha — (shaking finger at him nervously). Never you mind. The 
dinner is my business. Kill three I tell you. I've cooked for preachers 
before, (exiting) I hope to the lord that he will start you to thinking 
about your eternal future, 'stead of mooning about the past. 

Dr. Oldham picks up paper and tries to read, then rises, puts 
hands in pockets, walks to window and stands there In deep study.) 

Dr. Oldham — (looking out with hands shading eyes). Wonder who 
that is coming across the lawn. Some of the honorable sisters coming 
to gossip about the new preacher I guess. Hump. Gosh I don't envy you 
Dan, old boy. I do believe upon my word that it is Grace Conners. Poor 
child. I do wonder what could bring her here. 

(A sound as if some one falling against the door is heard, followed 
by shrieking, hysterical laughs.) 

Dr. Oldham — (opening the door) Good G — child, what in the name 
of common sense is the matter? 

(Grace staggers into the room with her face buried in her hands.) 
(Her clothes are very ragged.) 

Dr. Oldham — (nervously) By, by God, child, this'll never do in the 
world. May'be" I can help you if you'll tell me what the matter is 

or what's wrong. 

Grace — (still weeping) What difference does it make to any one 
what's wrong with that despised Conner's girl? 



4 THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 

Dr. Oldham — It makes a big difference to you, girl. You should be 
at home. 

Grace — (falls in a heap on the floor and laughs hysterically.) Home! 
Home! 

Dr. Oldham — (attempting to help her rise to her feet). Stand up 
here and tell me what's wrong. Are you sick? 

Grace — (rising and trying to gain composure). No sir. 

Dr. Oldham — Well, what have you been doing? 

Grace — (dropping into chair) Nothing. I've just been wandering 
around. 

Dr. Oldham — Why don't you go back to the hotel? You are work- 
ing there are you not? 

Grace — (wringing her hands and crying) No! No! I don't live 
there any more. 

Dr. Oldham — Well, where do you live? 

Grace. — Over in old town. 

Dr. Oldham — Why did you leave your place at the hotel? Grace- 
Grace — A — a man there said something that I didn't like, and 
then the boss told me that I must go, because some of the people were 
talking about me and I would give the hotel a bad name. Dr. I ain't a 
bad girl, ain't never been; but they're driving me to it. That or— or — 
It's the same every where I go or try to work, since father killed Jack 
Mulhail. At the canning factory the other girls said their folks would 
not let them work if I didn't leave. Dr. I haven't earned a cent since 
I left the hotel and I'm starving — (weeps again.) 

Dr. Oldham — (roughly). Look here, why didn't you come to me 
sooner? You knew you could come to me; didn't I tell you too? 

Grace — I— I— Mrs. Oldham, she — , she — the ladies aid, they all talk 
about me so. (crys again.) 

Dr. Oldham — (aside to himself). Dam these gossipers. (turning 
to Grace and speaking tenderly). Look here Grace, you sit here for a 
few minutes. I'll be back shortly. You needn't fear Martha, she's gone 
over to Elder Jordan's to plan for the next meeting of the Ladies Aid 
and to tell what she's going to have for the preacher's dinner, (exits 
disdainfully.) 

(Mam Liz enters with feather duster and collides with Dr. Old- 
ham as he exits.) 

Mam Liz — Lawdy sakes. Dr. Marsh Oldham, 'sense me — 'sense me 
sah. I— I sure is in a hurry. Talking 'bout ministers, they sure is 
gwine to make a big fuss over this one. Yes sah, Yes sah. (upon seeing 
Grace she jumps back as if afraid of her, then she dusts all around 
her and haughtily ignores her.) 

(Grace watches around the room and jumps at every sound.) 

Dr. Oldham — (returns carrying basket and talking to himself) Con- 
found the dad burned luck, that sure is a nice religion that makes a 
man steal from his own kitchen for the sake of charity. Here Grace, 
eat some of this chicken and bread and drink a glass of milk, (hands 
her food from the basket.) 

(Grace eats ravishingly from the food; and Dr. Oldham crosses 
over to the window; and Mam Liz continues her work.) 



THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 5 

Dr. Oldham — (chuckling to himself) Won't Martha rave when she 
discovers the theft? Ha! Ha! Too bad too. rince the preacher is com- 
ing for dinner today. 

Grace — (rising and taking her bonnet and basket) I — I — can't 
thank you enough, Dr. You have saved me from — 

Dr. Oldham — (interrupting). There now, girl, don't cry. You go 
home now and be a good girl and mind you look carefully in the bot- 
tom of that basket. It will help you until times are better. And now if 
you run against it again, come to me or go to Dr. Harry at the office 
and tell him that you want me. 

Grace — (exiting). Oh, thank God, some one cares for the poor Con- 
nsrs girl yet. 

Dr. Oldham — (shaking his head sadly and talking to himself.) 
Some people are so busy attending to the devil's work that they for- 
get the Lord's business entirely. Too bad, too bad and just to think 
that Martha is one of them, (speaking to the negro). Now Mam 
Liz, don't yoii dare to tell about that basket of grub. There would be 
a hell of a fuss if you should squeal on me. 

Mam Liz — (excited). Squeal — squeal — it's mighty shore I won't 
cah. Sakes alive wouldn't Missus Oldham be as mad as fury yes sah, 
yes sah she'd jist rare and cavort. Too bad sah you been plumb bad 
and the minister a coming and the pie and chicken gone. I feel just 
like I used too when I turned you across my apron and just walloped 
you good. Them poor white, trifling trash. To think of you doing the 
like of that to eech as them. There ain't no sense in sech doings no- 
how, (stands with arms akimbo and head tossed high). 

Dr. Oldham— Now Mam Liz, you are some aristocrat. 

Mam Lfz — 'ristocrat, 'ristocrat, yas sah, yas sah, that I is sah. I'se 
an 'ristocrat with good sense boss. You'll wish you'se an 'ristocrat too 
if missus finds out you've robbed the cupboard. 

Dr. Oldham — That will do now Mam Liz, perhaps you had better 
go help Martha get some more eats ready for the preacher. 

Mam Liz — .exiting). Yas sah, yas sah Boss, dat am shore so. 

(The dcctor picks up his paper and again reads. Whistling is 
heard outside.) 

Dr. Oldham — (to himself). That is the Denny boy, I know. I'm 
glad to hear his merry tunes. 

(Denny enters carrying a basket. He walks with a crutch, but has 
a smile on his boyish, Irish face.) 

» Dr. Oldham — (rising to greet him). Good morning, Denny. I'm 
mighty glad to see you. 

Denny — (seating himself and resting his crutch on the floor). It's 
mighty fine you're looking this morning, Dr. Is it the 10:40 he's com- 
ing on? 

Dr. Oldham — (blowing smoke into the air.) I believe it's the 10:40. 
And how are you feeling this morning, Denny? 

Denny — (placing helpless arm across his lap.) Oh! I'm fine thank 
you. Mother is fine too, and my garden is doing pretty good for me. Oh 
we'll get along alright. I told mother this morning that the blessed 
Virgin had'nt forgotten us yet. I'll bet them pertaters will grow an 
inch some nights this summer. And look what a day it Is for the fair 



6 THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 

and the preacher's a coming too. (Dr. Oldham looks at his watch.) 
We're all so pleased at his coming, people have'nt talked of anything 
else for a month, that and the fair of course. Things in this town will 
liven up now, seems to me I can feel it — yes sir, I can. Somethings 
going to happen I'm sure. 

Dr. Oldham — Hump! I feel rather that way myself, (pauses). I 
expect you two will be great friends, Denny. 

Denny — (gladly) Oh, doctor, really — I — I — the minister won't have 
any time for the likes of a red headed Irish boy like me. And is he 
really going to live at Mrs. Morgan's there? 

Dr. Oldham — (pointing). That is his room there. He'll be right 
handy to us both. 

Denny — Now is'nt that fine? Is'nt it grand? That's such a nice 
room. Dr., it has such a fine view of the monument. 

Dr. Oldham — Yes, the monument and your garden, (looks at watch 
again). It will soon be train time, Denny, so let's stop on the way and 
look at your garden. 

Denny — (rising feebly and taking the crutches that the doctor 
hands to him and calls to Mrs. Oldham.) Here's a fine basket of veg- 
etables I brought for the minister's dinner, Mrs. Oldham. It's out of 
me garden they are. 

(Denny and the Dr. exit at right and Mrs. Oldham enters at left 
and takes up the basket.) 

Martha — (as steps are heard outside.) Land sakes is that some one 
coming? I do wish people would stay at home and attend to their own 
business this morning. Sounds like the widow Mulhall's voice. Suppose 
she's coming to meddle too. I don't want her if she only knew it. 

(Martha goes to door.) 

Martha — Good morning, Mrs. Mulhail. I was just saying that I 
wished you would come over this morning. 

Mrs. Mulhali — (enters fanning herself with her bonnet). Faith 
and it's expecting a new preacher ye are? 

Martha — (hurriedly adjusting things in the room). Yes, yes, and 
I've a week's work to do before dinner. Mam Liz is helping with the 
kitchen work. 

Mrs. Mulhail — (unwrapping a package) I jest ran over to bring 
you this cabbage. Denny came in such a hurry that he forgot it. 

Martha — Thank you Mrs. Mulhail. I don't know what we would do 
without Denny and his garden. Did you see any of the church folks 
going to meet the train this morning? 

Mrs. Mulhali — Faith and I did. I seen old Judge Strong, Elder Jor- 
dan, and Sister Jordan and Miss Charity. 

Martha — Of course I should have known that little doll-faced 
Charity would have to go. Nothing could keep her nway from the 
depot if she heard that an unmarried i; jacher was coming to tov/n. 
Don't you know that she has been born nw} r-^ar^-'f^ for t minister's 
wife. The doctor said she was even too nice to cry like other babies. 

(train whistles) 
Martha — There it comes now. My, I'm all in a flutter. You 
watch. Mrs. Mulhail and tell me when you see them coming this way. 
(grabbing up talcum powder can and powders freely). It'^ been f 



THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 7 

long time since I used any powder but as a new minister is coming 
and as I am president of the Ladies Aid, I must look my best. 

Mrs. Mulhall — (crossing over and looking out of window) That 
I will, Faith and begorra, I'd hate to be in that poor bye's place with 
them danged old hypocrites to jedge me actions. 

There goes me poor Denny to the meat shop. Bet he thinks that 
he'll get a squint at the new preacher. Oh, do come here quick and 
see that there devil of a Jud Hardy. By the Virgin Mary, there's go- 
ing to be trouble. Jest see him a raving like mad and see the wrath 
in his eyes. 

(Martha excitedly goes to the window. Shrieks are heard and a 
voice says, "Get out of the way, you pink eyed dudes, I've got some 
for you. too.") 

Martha— Who is he? That tall man? 

Mrs. Mulhall — Oh, me poor Denny, he's killed, he's killed. MUR- 
DER! MURDER! (exits screaming) 

Martha — (jumping up and down with excitement) Oh, look, that 
tall fellow is just mopping the earth with Jed Hardy My sakes they're 
coming in here. Where's the minister? I hope they haven't forgotten 
him. That tall man can't be him because ministers don't fight. And 
there's a strange woman too. Who in the world can they be? 

(The precession enters. Dr. Oldham and Dan are carrying Denny. 
Hope Farwell and Mrs. Mulhall bring up the rear. Mis. Mulhall 
cries loudly and exclaims: Me poor Denny, me poor Denny, poor bye, 
at every breath.) 

After placing Denny on the lounge and administering to his 
wounds Dr. Oldham turns and says: Martha, this is our new minister, 
Dan Matthews and this is the nurse who is to take the case at Judge 
Strong's. 

(Martha opens her mouth wide with astonishment, as she takes 
his hand; Dr. Oldham chuckles to himself; Mrs. Mulhall weeps over 
Denny.) 

CURTAIN. 



8 THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 

Act II. 

SCENE. — Grace Conner's room. The walls are very ragged and 
there is no carpet on the floor. The furniture consists of an old wooden 
bed, an old cupboard, a chair and small dilapidated table, with a few 
dishes on it. The light from the dirty lamp on the table is very dim. 

Grace — (seated at the table, holding a small bottle of carbolic acid, 
looks at the bottle, places it on the table and weeps bitterly.) I dont 
want to do it. I don't want to die. Oh! why have they driven me to it? 
Why does God let me suffer so because of the treatment of His church 
people. Oh, nobody cares for the Conner's girl. (laughs hysterically.) 

(Mam Liz rushes in and starts toward Grace.) 

Mam Liz — What's the matter, honey? 

Grace — (weeping). Oh! I can't live any longer! Everybody thinks 
that I'm bad and I'm afraid of everybody. 

Mam Liz — (with arms akimbo). Law sakes, child, don't you think 
that dis nigger let anybody hurt you. Why me and your uncle George 
am right here. And don't let it worry you what them poor, trifling, 
white trash am a gwine to say. Hump! your aunt Mam Liz wouldn't 
step her foot on the likes of them. 

Grace — Oh! why am I treated this way? They talk about me so. 

Mam Liz — Don't you worry, white child. Lawdy sakes! The devil 
will sure grin when he gets them. Yas sah! He sure v/ill, honey. 

(Grace v^eeps bitterly. Mam Liz spies the bottle of acid on the 
table and jumps around trying to get out of the room.) 

Mam Liz— (saluting) CARBOLIC ACID! CARBOLIC ACID! You 
don't catch diss nigger staying around diss jint. CARBOLIC ACID! 
CARBOLIC ACID! That m.eans good bye any place. 

(Mam Liz falls to the floor, because of her excitment to find the 
door, and rolls out of the room.) 

(Grace rises and locks into several empty dishes, goes to the emp- 
ty cupboard and turns back toward the table.) 

Grace — (in supplication with eyes turned heavenward.) God, I'm 
oh so hungry. Oh! mother, why did you die and leave me? Can't you 
see that I'm so lonesome and hungry? 

Grace — (crossing back to table and picking up the bottle.) I don't 
want to die. No money, no work, no food, no friends; what else can I 
do? OH! God, have mercy on my soul, (drinks acid, screams frantical- 
ly, overturns table and chairs and acts as if in great pain. ) 

Mam — (rushing in). Lawdy sakes, child, now v/hat's you gone and 
done? (Mam Liz wrestles with her and at last places her on the bed. 
Grace acts frantic and Mam Liz coaxes and tries to keep her on the 
bed). 

Mam Liz — (calling outside). George! George! Run for Dr. Harry 
quick! Quick! I tell you. Go faster than your old legs will take ye. Tell 
him this is a 'mergency case, an 'mergency case I tell you. Carbolic 
Acid! (saluting). Good bye. 

Grace — (screaming and tossing on the bed.) I'm burning up! Oh! 
I'm so hot! Please let me die! 

Mam Liz — (holding her on the bed). Hush, child honey, youse 
gwine to be alright soon, (to herself.) I do believe I hear that blessed 
man coming up the road now in his shay. The darling boy. 



THE CALLING OP DAN MATTHEWS 9 

(While Mam Liz coaxes and works with her, Dr. Abbott hurriedly 
enters) 

Mam Liz — May the God bless you, Dr. Harry, I'se never so glad to 
see you in all of my life. Carbolic, sah! Carbolic did it. 

(Dr. Abbott goes quickly to the bed, completely Ignoring the old 
darkey. He administers to the girl who strikes at him and moans wild- 
ly.) 

Dr. Abbott — Mam Liz you help me straighten her out on the bed 
to she can rest presently. 

Mam Liz — Yas sah, yas sah, Marsh Harry. 

Dr. Abbot — I happened to be coming this way and met Uncle Geo. 
;o I sent him for the nurse at .Judge Strong's. As soon as they come 
we will relieve you of this. 

Mam Liz — No trouble at ail. Marsh Harry. Only one thing, please 
tak;e that carbolic acid from this house at once, (she shies round the 
bottle many times.) 

Dr. Harry — (looking about the room.) How long has this poor child 
been living in this place? 

Mam Liz — Every since she left the hotel, sah. Well lately she 
don't 'ppear to be doin as well as usual, and we got plumb scared of 
her, she acted so queer. A few minutes ago I heard a moanin and a 
screeching like in the poor girl's room here, and when I come in she 
was jest a throwing herself and a beggin to die. I got her here on the 
bed and sent for you sah, yas sah, yas sar. And I'se most tuckered 
out too. (Sighs). 

Grace, who has been asleep, stirs and moans and Dr. Harry and 
Mam Liz hold her on the bed.) 

(Hcpe Farwell, dressed in nurse's unifrom, appears.) 

Dr. Harry — (glancing up). Carbolic acid. But she didn't get quite 
oncugh. I managed to give her an antidote and hyodermic. We had 
better repeat the hypodermic, I think. 

(Hope takes her place at the bedside and soon the young woman 
rests quietly again.) ' 

Dr. Harry — Mam Liz, you go and get some rest, you have had a 
tiring time. If we need you, we will send for you. 

Mam Liz — (backing out of the room and looking at the acid bot- 
tle). Yas sah, yas sah. 

Dr. Abbott — Miss Farwell, I am sorry that I was forced to send 
for you, but you can see that there was nothing else to do. I knew that 
you would come without the loss of time and I dared not leave her 
without a white woman in the room, (noes to bedside). Poor, poor little 
girl. She tried so hard to die, nurse. She will try again the minute she 
gains consciousness. These colored people will do anything for her, 
but she must see one of her own race when siie opens her eyes. 

Miss Farwell — ^She is a good girl, Doctor? Not that it matters but — 

Dr. Harry — (positively interrupting). Yes, she is a good girl, nurse. 
It is not that. 

Miss Farwell — (glancing around the room.) Then why is she 
here? 

Dr. Harry — She is here because there seems to be no better place 
for her to go. She did this because there seemed to be nothing else for 



10 THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 

her to do. Her father, you know, killed Jack Mulhall, our marshall; 
and shortly after that he was taken to prison, her mother died. Miss 
Farwell, sad but true, some of the church folks gosfii:>ed and told false 
things about her. They turned her out of "he chii.-li, their wagging 
tongues followed her from one place to anoihir, CLiusiiig her to lose 
work; and now they have driven her to this. DRIVhJ>>r I SAY. Dr. Old- 
ham and I tried to help.her but some' bad stories got out. Slie heard 
them and after that she avoided us. Here's the saddest case of all. 
Miss Farwell, a good girl with a bad reputation. 

(Dr. Harry goes to patient. Miss Farwell takes a small pencil and 
tablet from her pocket and writes.) 

Dr. Harry — (turning and taking up his hat). I must go to another 
case, Miss Farwell. I shall not keep you more than an hour. I think I 
know of a woman that we can get for today, at least. Perhaps we can 
get some one else or arrange it somehow. I'll be back in plenty of 
time, so don't worry. Your train does not go until 10:30, you know. If 
that woman can't come at once I'll ask Dr. Oldham to relieve you. 

Miss Farwell — (smiling). I am very sorry. Dr. Abbott, if I am not 
giving satisfaction. 

Dr. Harry — (amazed.) Not giving satisfaction? What do you mean? 

Miss Farwell — You seem to be dismissing me. I understood that 
you sent for me to take this case. 

(Miss Farwell continues writing). 

Dr. Harry — Do you mean — 

Miss Farwell — t'ooking up). I mean that unless you send me away 
I shall stay on duty. 

Dr. Harry — But Dr. Miles — that case in Chicago — ? I understood 
from you that was very important. 

Miss Farwell — (smiling). There is nothing so important as the 
thing that needs doing now. And I do seem to be needed here. 

Dr. Harry — And you understand that there will be no fees? 

Miss Farwell — Is your work always a question of fees. Dr.? I am 
surprised at you. Cannot I collect my bill when you receive your's? 

Dr. Harry — (holding out his hand.) Forgive me. Miss Farwell, but 
it is too good to be true. I can't say any more now. You are needed 
here — you cannot know how badly. I — we all need you. I will go and 
then be back later. Your patient will be alright for at least three 
hours. I'll send Uncle George for your breakfast. 

Miss Farwell — Never mind the breakfast. If you will have him 
bring these things, I will get along nicely, (tears a sheet of paper from 
the tablet and hands it to him.) Here is a list that Mrs. Strong will 
give you from my room. And here is a list that he may get from the 
grocery, (tears another sheet of paper.) I have not my purse with me 
so he will have to bring the bills. 

Dr. Harry — (looking at the slips of paper.) You really must not 
do that, Miss Farwell. 

Miss Farwell — This is my case, you know, Dr. 

Dr. Harry — It was mine first. 

Miss Farwell — But Dr. — 

Dr. Harry — Shall I send you my bill, too? (laughing.) We shall 



THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 11 

settle that later, (as he exits.) If you need anything before I returr 
just call Mam Liz. 

(Miss Farwell straightens up the dishes: sweeps and dusts; steps 
out and brings in curtain material, which she puts up to the windows, 
places clean clothes on the bed, puts up pictur-es, and she almost com- 
pletes her work, a low knock is heard. She opens the door and Dr. 
Oldham comes in with an armfull of roses. 

Miss Farwell — (taking the flowers.) Oh! Dr. just what that I was 
wishing for. Aren't they lovely? 

Dr. Oldham — Yes, yes. Harry told me what you were up to. 
Thought I had better come along in case you should need any help. 

(Dr. Oldham draws his chair to the bedside and Miss Farwell con- 
tinues her work. She places the roses, puts clean papers on the cup- 
board shelves and covers the table over with a clean linen.) 

Dr. Oldham — (suddenly Jumping up.) Darn the gossiping cligue! 
Darn them, I say! Ah! I beg — I — I beg your pardon, Miss Farwell. I 
was only thinking aloud. 

Miss Farwell — (laughing). That's alright Dr. I can say amen to that. 
I believe I fully understand just how you feel about this case. 

Dr. Oldham — (with a gesture toward the bed.) Nurse, you and Dr. 
Harry tell me that this is suicide. The people will think that this poor 
child wanted to kill herself, and they will call it suicide. But — by God! 
it's murder! MURDER I TELL YOU! She did not want to kill her- 
self. She wanted to live to be strong and beautiful like you; but this 
community wita it's churches, Sunday schoods, and prayer meetings 
wouldn't let her. They denied her the poor privilege of working for 
the fcod that she needed. They refused even a word of sympathy. 
They hounded her into this stinking hole to live with the negroes. She 
may die, nurse, and if she does, as truly as there is a Creator who 
loves his creatures, her death will be upon the unspeakably cruel, 
pious, self-worshiping, churchified, spiritually rotten people in this 
town! It's murder, I tell you, by God it's murder! 

(At the end of this outburst Dr. Oldham reaches for his hat and 
hastily exits.) 

(The sick girl tosses and moans and Hope Farwell goes to her and 
tries to console her. When the patient sleeps, she crosses to the win- 
dow and watches out.) 

(Darkey songs are heard outside and she seems much amused by 
them.) 

(A low knock is heard and Miss Farwell crosses over and opens 
the door with dignity. Dan Matthews stands in the doorway, hat in 
hand.) 

Dan — May I come in? I called to see your patient. Dr. Oldham 
asked me to come. 

Miss Farwell — (coldly.) Certainly, come in. (she places a chair for 
him by the bed and then again walks to the window.) 

Dan — (still standing). She is still asleep? 

Miss Farwell — (looking at watch.) She has been asleep nearly 2 
hours. 

Dan — Is there — will she recover? 

Miss Farwell — Dr. Abbott says there is no reason why she should 



12 THE CALLING OP DAN MATTHEWS 

not if we can turn her from lier determination to die. 

Dan — (awed and surprised.) Her determination to die — ? Why 
should she wish to die? 

Miss FarweJI — (coldly.) Why should she wish to live? 

Dan— I — I — do not understand. 

Miss Farwell — (firmy.) I don't suppose that you do. How could, 
you? Your ministry is a matter of schools and theories, of doctrines 
arid beliefs. This is a matter of life. 

Dan- My church — - 

Miss Farwell — (sarcastically.) Your church does not understand 
either. It is so busy earning money to pay it's minister that it has no 
time for such things as this. 

Dan — (protesting). But they do not know. I did not dream that 
such a thing as this could be. 

Miss Farwell — ^You a minister of Christ's gospel and ignorant of 
these things. And yet this is not an uncommon case. Sir, I could tell 
you of many similiar cases that have come under my observation, 
though not all of them have chosen to die. This girl could have made 
a living, I suppose you under stand, but she is a good girl; so there 
was nothing for her to do but this. All that she asked was a chance, 
only a chance. They denied her this. 

(Dan drops his head in silerice.) 

Miss Farwell — What right have you, Mr. Matthews, to say that 
you do not understand — that you do not know? It is your business to 
understand — to know. And your church — what right has it to plead 
ignorant of the life about it's very doors? If such things are not it's 
business, what business has the institution that professes to exist for 
the salvation of men? That hires men like you — as you yourself profes.i 
to minister to the world. What right have you or your church to be 
ignorant of the every day conditions of life? Dr. Abbott must know his 
work, I must know mine. The world demands it of us, and the world 
is beginning to demand of you and your church that you know your 
business. 

Dan — (trembling.) But the people are not beasts. They do not 
realize. At heart they — we are kind. We do not mean to be careless- 
ly cruel. Do you believe this, Miss Farwell? 

Miss Farwell — Of course I believe it, but that does not alter the 
situation the least bit. The same thing could be said, I suppose, of 
those who crucified Christ. Your people give so much time, thought 
and love to your churches, that they have nothing left— nothing left 
for girls like this one. 

(Negro voices are again heard and Hope Farwell, moved to tears, 
crosses over to window. Dan goes to the bed and looks at the sick 
girl.) 

Dan — (slowly -moving about.) Is there — no one who cares? 

Miss Farwell — (coldly turning about). No on<=^ has made her fori 
that they do. 

Dan — But you — surely you care. 

Miss Farwell — (weeping.) Yes, yes I care. How could I help it? Oh. 
if we could only make her feel that we — that someone wants her, that 
there is a place for her, that there are those who need her— (goes- to 
the bed and Icoks en the c'cepinj g^"^-) ^ — Hvon't loi her go. 



THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 13 

Dan— Let us help you Miss Farwell, Dr. Oldham asked that I 
should ask you if the church could help you. I am sure they would, 
should I present the case to them. This is the church's work, you 
know. 

Miss Farwell — (looking scorirfully at him.) Yes, you are quite 
right. This is the church's work. You have made it very evident, Mr. 
Matthews, that you know nothing of the matter. I have not doubt but 
that the church members would respond with a liberal collection, 
should you picture all that you have seen here in an eloquent, pathetic 
appeal. Some, in the fullness of their emotions, might offer their ser- 
vices; others' I am sure would send flowers. Before you do so, I ask 
you to inquire of Dr. Oldham why Grace Conner is here and why she 
wishes to die. (with an air of dismissal.) And now in consideration 
of my patient, who may awaken any moment, I dare not permit you 
to prolong this call. 

Dan — (looks at the nurse bewildered, takes up his hat and exists.) 

(Miss Farwell goes to the window and watches him leave, then 
goes to the bed and weeps silently.) 

Miss Farwell — (to herself.) Oh, why am I growing so bitter? He 
did not mean any harm. The cruel injustice of this has overcome me. 
He is a good man. He cannot answer for the sins of this wicked town. 

Grace — (opening her eyes and trying to raise her head.) Nurse — 

Miss Farwell — (turning quickly) Yes, dear, what is it. Did you 
have a good sleep? 

Grace — I was not asleep. I — oh nurse — is it true? 

Miss Farwell — (laying her hand on the sick girl's forehead.) Were 
you awake while the minister was here? 

Grace — Yes. I heard it all. Is it — is it true? 

Miss Farwell — Is what true, child? 

Grace — That you — that anyone cares? 

Miss Farwell — (framing the giri's face with her hands.) Now 
don't you know that I care? 

Grace — (clinging to the nurse's hands and kissing them again and 
again.) I'm not so bad. nurse. I have always been a good girl — even 
when I was so hungry. But they talked about me so, and even — made 
people think that I was bad, until I was ashamed to meet anyone. Then 
they put me out of the church, nobody would give me work in their 
homes; they drove me out of every place that I got, until there was 
no place but this. I was so frightened with all of these negroes in 
the house. Oh, nurse, I didn't want to do it but I thought that no one 
cared for me. 

Miss Farwell — They did not mean to be cruel, dear. They did not 
understand. You heard the minister say that they would help you now. 

Grace — (gripping Miss Farwell's arm and shaking her head.) They 
put me out of the church. They drove me to this. Don't. Promise me 
that you won't let them in. 

Miss Farwell — There — there — dear. I will take care of you. No 
one can take you away from God. You must remember that. 

Grace — Is there a God? Do you think that there is a God? 

Miss Farwell — Yes, yes, dear. All of the cruelty in the world can't 
take God away from us if we hold on. We all make mistakes, you 



14 THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 

know, terrible mistakes, sometimes. People with the kindest, truest 
hearts sometimes do cruel things without thinking. Why, I suppose 
those people, who crucified Jesus, were kind and good in their way. 
They didn't understand what they were doing. By and by you will 
learn to feel sorry for these people, just as Jesus wept over those, 
wiiom he knew were going to kill him. But firpt. you must ger well 
and strong again You will, won't you. 

Grace — (falling back almost asleep.) .Yes, nurse. I'll try, now 
that I know you care. 

CURTAIN. 



THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 15 

Act 111. 

SCENE — Mrs. Mulhall's kitchen. The furniture consists of an old 
cupboard, stove, two chairs, small table. The room is clean and neat. 
On a stool chair at one side of the room is a tub steaming with hot 
water. Mrs. Mulhall, dressed in a large, red "Mother Hubbard" dress 
and blue waist apron, with sleeves rolled high, is washing. Denny is 
sitting nearby reading. 

(Mrs. Mulhall suddenly stops washing and weeps loudly.) 

Denny — (trying to comfort her). Come, come, mother. Don't be 
taking on so. It will all come out somehow. 

Hope Farwell — (standing in the doorway.) Why, Mrs. Mulhall, 
what in the world is the matter? 

Denny — (patting her on the shoulder.) Come, come, mother. Look 
up. It is Miss Hope that is talking to you. Don't mother. We will make 
it alright. We've got to. 

Miss Farwell — (going to her). Yes, yes, Mrs. Mullhali. do tell me 
your troubles. 

Mrs. Mulhall — (drying her tears with her apron.) It's a shame for 
me to be going on so. Miss Hope. 

Miss Farwell — Please do tell me your troubles. Maybe I can neip 
you. 

Mrs. Mulhall— Indeed, dear heart, don't I know that you've enough 
trouble of your own, without you loading up with mine and Denny's. 
Ain't I seen how you've been put to it for the last month to make both 
ends meet? You and Grace are having a hard time, ye know ye are. 
And you all of the time trying to look cheerful and bright to keep her 
heartened up. Many is the time. Miss Hope, have I seen that sad look 
on your sweet face, when you thought that no one was looking. And 
every night me and Denny prayed to the Blessed Virgin to soften the 
hearts of the people in this dsnged town. Ob, I know. I know, jjut, jt 
does seem that God has clean forgot us all together. I can't help believ- 
ing that it would be different if we could only go to mass as decent 
folks ought to do. 

Miss Farwell — But you and Denny have helped me more than I 
can ever tell you, so now you must let me help you. 

Mrs. Mulhall — It's glad enough I would be to let you help and 
quick enough to, but nothing but money will do it. Can't I see by them 
old shoes that you are wearing and by that old last year's coat that 
you have earned just enough to keep you and Grace alive? 

Miss Farwell — That is all true enough, Mrs. Mulhall. but I am 
sure that it will help you just to tell me your troubles. 

Mrs. Mulhall — (shaking her fist in the air.) It's all because of 
that danged old hyprocrite of a Judge Strong. Miss Farwell, he's the 
meanest man on earth. When me poor Jack died Judge Strong held a 
mortage on this little home for $850. Well don't ye know that me and 
poor Denny managed to pay the interest every year; so the darned 
old fool didn't dare to push this matter, 'cause of what folks would 
say. You see me poor Jack was killed on duty and we had the sympa- 
thy of this whole danged community, me and me Denny boy did. But 
you Know, Mis^:- Hope, that times have been pretty hard this year, so 
me and Denny have not been able to scrape the interest money this 
year. Judge Strong saw this as his chance to get our little home so 



16 THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 

he has given us notice to get out tomorrow, (weeps again.) 

Miss Farwell — Really, Mrs. Mulhall, I can hardly believe this. 
Have you no relatives, who could help? No friends? Perhaps Dr. Old- 
ham — 

Mrs. Mulhall — (shaking her head sadly.) There's only me and 
brother Mike in the family. Mike's a brick layer and would give the 
coat off his very back for me but he's been movin' about so over the 
co'vitrv. bein ^n»^'V ^o-. ^ ee thrt T ^--^'t r^pt '^ I'-iip'- to Mm. I d'd 
write to him where I heard from him last but me letter came back. He 
don't write often, thinking that me and Denny is alright. I ain't seen 
him since he was here to help put poor Jack away. 

(Denny takes up a hoe and exits.) 

Miss Farwell — (turning quickly). There is some one. Of course, 
why didn't we think of him before? 

Mrs. Mulhall — (looking up hopefully). Faith and think of who. 
youngin? 

Miss Far-.A(ii--Mr. Mrtthews. ^ 

Mrs. Mulhall — But child, the minister's away with the Dr. fishing. 
And what good could he be doin' if he was here? He's that poor him- 
self. , 

Miss Farwell — Oh I don't know just what that he would, but he 
would do something. He's that kind of a man. 

Mrs. Mulhall — Faith and begorra. he is that. Miss Hope. 

(Just then Dan enters clcthed in fisherman's garb, and carrying 
n fishing pole.) 

Mrs. Mulhall — (from over v-'-h tjb). Faith and I was never so 
surprised in me life. Bless the Virgin, it's talk of the angels and you 
can hear the flutter of their wings. It's a fishing we thought ye were. 

Dan — No. Dr. and I did not get started last evening. We had un- 
expected business to delay us. (To Miss Farwell) — Really I did not 
know that^ — that you — 

Mi£S Farvvc!!- -(looking up from her sewinq.) Wora your neighb-^rs - 
Yes we are. Grace and I moved yesterday. (Mrs. Mulhall picks up tub 
and clothes and exits.) You see it was not good for her to remain in 
that place. It was all so suggestive of her suffering. I knew that Mrs. 
Mulhall had a room to rent, because I had planned to take it before I 
decided to ; o back to Chicago. The poor -^bild haJ such a fea- 
0} everyone, that I thought it would help her to knov that Mrs. Mol- 
hall would be good to her, even though that it was Denny's father tiiat 
her lather — yoi' know. 

Dan — Yes, yes, I know. 

Miss Farwell — I explained to Mrs. Mulhall and like the good soul 
that she is, she understood and made the poor child feel better right 
away. I thought too that if Grace was living here with Mrs. Mulhall, 
it might help the people to be kinder to her. Soon some one will give 
her the chance to earp her living and she will be alright. The people 
will soon act differently when they see how Mrs. Mulhall feels, don't 
you think so? 

Dan — (taking a chair and looking bewildered.) Then you — you are 
not going away? 

Miss Farwell — No. Not until Grace gets a good place. She will 



THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 17 

need me until she finds a home, you know. Dr. Abbott has been prom- 
i.tung me plenty of work. Grace and I are going to do light house-keep- 
ing here. Grace will do the house work while I am busy. You see 
in this way Grace will ieei less dependent and it will not cost us so 
much that way.- I wish to thank you, Mr. Matthews, for your help — for 
the money that you sent. The poor child needed so many things. And 
[ wish to beg your— paidon — for — the shameful way that I treated you. 
I knew better but I was so overcome with the cruei neglect of the 
church people, that I could not keep from blaming the minister. Mrs. 
iVIulhaii has been telling me of your kindness to tiiem— 

Dan — (interrupting.) Please don't, Miss Farwell. I believe that 1 
understand now. I am of life, you know I was born and reared in the 
backw(.od3. Until I went to college, I knew only our simple country 
life, at college I knew only books and students, then 1 came here. 

Mis-s Fa'-v.'ell-^So this is your first church? 

Dan — V s, and for the man not the minister, 1 ask that we be 
triends. Let's consider Denny's garden as common ground. We'll put 
a sign over the gaie, "No professional ministry shall enter here; the 
minister lives up there, (points to window.) 

Miss Farwell — I warn you that will not work. You and your 
ministry are the same. You know my honest opinion of your church 
and it's people — not the Christian people, you understand. Look what 
they have done for Grace. I warn you that we cannot leave the min- 
ister on the other side of the gate and let you enter. 

Dan — (nervously). I — I don't know what you will tiiink, but I 
learned something yesterday that I tJiink you ought to know, Miss Par- 
well. 1 feel I must tell you. 

Miss Farwell — Go on please. 

Dan — I — I had some callers and tlie things that 1 learned havo 
worried me beyond words to express. It seems that from what Dr. 
Abbott says that people will not give you work because or Grace. Oh, 
Miss Farwell, you cannot afford to sacrifice your personal and pro- 
fessional reputation — think what it means to me — to you — to all of us. 

Miss Farwell — (smiling sarcastically.) And you, too, wish to see 
my letters of recommendation? Shall I give you list of people to whom 
you might write? 

Dan — (sadly.) Miss Farwell! 

Miss Farwell — Forgive me. That was unkind. 

Dan — Well, rather. You see I did not come to you with this for 
fun. (smiles grimly.) 

Miss Farwell — (critically.) You don't seem to be enjoying it 
greatly. I can easily see how this talk might result in something very 
serious for you. Have I not .just warned you that you cannot leave 
the minister on the other side of the fence? But of course you can 
easily avoid any trouble with your people, you have only to — 

Dan — (firmly interruptinciJ I did not intend to discuss the pos- 
sibilities of trouble for myself. Please believe this — even if you do 
tiiink me a servant of the church. Don't you see how this idle,, silly 
talk is- likely to harm you? You know what the same thing did for 
Grace Conner. It is really serious, Miss Farwell — believe me, it is or 
T should never have told you aDout it at all. Already Dr. Harry — 

Miss Farwell — (quickly.) Has found some people, who will not 



18 THE CALLING OP DAN MATTHEWS 

employ me because of things that are being said. I have known it for 
5ome time, instead of telling me lately of possible cases and telling 
me of work as he did at first, ht- has been saying, "I will let you know 
if anything turns up." 

Dan — (eargerly.) Dr. Abbott has done everything that he could, 
Miss Parwell. I ought not to have mentioned him at all. You must 
know — 

Miss Fa-'well — (dignified). Certainly I do not blame Dr. Abbott, not 
in the least. You are both very kind to consider me in this way, but 
really you must not be troubled about this silly gossip. I am not de- 
pendent upon the good people of Corinth, you know. I can go back to 
the city at any time, (slowly) perhaps that would be the wisest thing 
to do after all. It was only for Grace's sake that I have remained. 

Dan — (eagerly). But you do not need to leave Corinth. This talk 
you know is all because of your companion's reputation. 

Miss Farweli — You mean the reputation that people have given 
her. 

Dan — So far as reputation goes it amounts to the same thing. It 
is your association with her. If you could arrange with some family 
now. 

Miss Farweli — Grace needs me, Mr. Matthews. 

Dan — But it is so unjust. The sacifice is too great. You cannot af- 
ford to place yourself before this community in such a wrong light. 

(Dan walks the floor with hands in his pockets. Hope calmly sews) 

Miss Farweli — Are you not advocating the doctrines and policy of 
the people, who are responsible for tie wrong light, rather than the 
teaching of Christ? Are you not speaking professionally? Haven't you 
forgotten our agreement to leave the preacher on the other side of the 
fence ? 

Dan — (em harassed). Miss Farweli — you must not — you must not 
misunderstand me! I do not mean — I cannot bear the thought of you 
being misjudged because of this beautiful. Christian service. I was 
only seeking a way out. 

Miss Farweli — No. I do not misunderstand you, but there is only 
one way out, as you put it. You must consider what the result will 
be if you are seen with me. (quickly) — with Grace and me. Can the 
pastor of Memorial Church afford to associate with two women of 
doubtful reputation? What will your church think? You see you will 
need to find a way out. 

Dan — (crossly). I am not looking for a way out. 

Miss Farweli — Ah! but you should. You must consider your repu- 
tation and influence. Consider the great harm your interest in Grace 
Conner will do your church. You must remember your position in the 
community. You cannot afford to — risk your reputation. 

(Dan clinches his fist). 

Really there is no reason that you should suffer from this. It 
is not necessary for you to continue our little friendship. You can 
stay on the other side of the fence. I — we will understand. You have 
too much at stake. I — , 

Dan — Miss Parwell, I don't know what you think of me that you 
can say those things. I had hoped that you looked upon me as a 
man, not as a mere preacher. I had dared to think that our friendship 



THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 19 

was growing to Gomething stronger. If I am mistaken, I will stay on 
the other side of the fence. If I am right, if you do care for me, I will 
cerve my people faithfully, but I will not shape my life by their fool- 
ish, wicked whims, ©enny's garden may get along without me and you 
may not need our friendship, but I need Dennv's garden and I need 
you. 

Miss Farwell — (gladly). Forgive me. I only wished to know that 
you understand some things clearly. 

Dan — I am beginning to understand a good many things. 

Miss Farwell — And understanding, you will still come to work in 
Denny's garden? (smiling). 

Dan — (laughing b-byishly). Yes, just as if there was no other place 
in the world where I could get a job. (crossing to her.) Hope, don't 
3'ou know that I love you? 

Miss Farwell — (withdrawing). Yes, yes, and can you doubt that 
your love is returned? It is your right to tell me and it is my right to 
tell you, but that must be all. 

Dan— All? 

Miss Farwell — All. I have not changed my opinion of your minis- 
try and your ministry is your life. Knowing this can't you see that I 
can never be more to you than I am now. 

(Dan drops his head, buries face in his hands. Tears come in 
Hope's eyes and she starts to stroke his hair but silently withdraws 
to the window.; 

Dan — (raising his head and speaking sadly.) Tell me, if I were any 
thing else, if I were engaged in any other kind of work, would you be 
my wife? 

Miss Farwell — -Why do you ask that? 

Dan — Because, I must know. 

Miss Farwell — If ycu v»ere a common laborer, i. business or a 
proessiorial ma:;, if vour wovV. was anytbiiiv, !i no l' '»'•• and right. 
Save what it is — yi:'3. gladly, or. how gladi* . 

Dan — (rising.) Then I will give up my work. I will do something 
else. (walks the floor.) 

Miss Farwell — Hush! Oh hush! I have learned to love you beciuse 
you are so truly yourself, because you are so true to yourself. You 
must not disappoint me now. I know you won't. I know that this is 
your chosen life work according to your conscience, if you ever change, 
then ccme to me and I will be your wife. Whether you do or not, you 
must always believe that I love you; that I shall always love you and 
that I shall never, never doubt your love for me. 

(Dan picks up his hat and staggers toward the door.) 

Mrs. Mulhall — (entering the room). Don't be in a hurry. Mr. Mat- 
thews. It is very fine for fishing, indade. 

Dan — Yes and I promised the Dr. that I would only be here for a 
few minutes. I wanted to speak to the Denny boy. How is he? 

Mrs. Mulhall — Fine, fine, it's a workin' he is. (someone knocks and 
all jump in surprise.) I wonder who now? (goes to door.) It's good 
mornin'. Judge Strong. Come in. 

(The Judge haughtily enters but seems much disturbed at the 
sight of Dan and Hope.) 



20 THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 

Judge Strong — Eh! — lieh — well — howde do, Brother Matthews, 
hardly knew you. I thought that you were at Gordon's Mill fishing. 
It's a mighty fine prayer meeting that we had last night, too bad that 
you couldn't be with us; but — ahem — the Lord was with us anyway. 
Seems as if our congregation at prayer meetings are no*^ what they 
ought to be. 

(Dan crosses and looks intently at the Judge; Hope exits witli her 
sewing.) 

Mrs. Mulhall — ^(as she places a chair.) Won't you have a chair? 
Judge Strong^ — No. I stopped only a minute to see you on a matter 
of business. 

(Mrs. Mulhall twists her apron and frowns nervously,) 

Dan — (firmly.) I, too. want to see you. Judge Strong, on a matter 
of bjisiness. 

Judge Strong — ^Ah! — well — ah — 

Dan — I hear that you are to foreclose the mortgage on this little 
home of Widow Mulhall's, and I want to ask you if you had not better 
reconsider' the matter. 

Judge Strong — (drawing hinnself haughtily to his full height.) It 
would not be — ah — business, and Brother Matthews, ah — allow me to 
ask you if you — ah— consider this as coming under your pastoral 
duties. 

(Meanwhile Mrs. Mulhall weeps). 

Dan — (with clinched fists.) Sir, this minute I have the evidence 
to prove to the world that you are a thief. You, Judge Strong, an elder 
in Strong Memorial Church, have o' ed to rob a crippled Irish boy 
and his widowed mother of their ho.iie and their garden, their only 
means of support. 

(Mrs. Mulhall sits up astonished and shakes her fist at the Judgej 
the Judge squirms and coughs; Dan crosses within striking distance, 
with clenched fist. Just then the Judge draws a revolver from his hip 
pocket.) 

Dan — Don't you dare, (takes revolver from him.) 
Judge Strong — You're a liar — I'll — I'll have the law on you. I'll 

put you out of the Christian ministry. I'll — I'll — have you arrested if 

you assault me — I'll — I'll — I'll — 

Mrs. Mulhall — (shaking her fist under the Judge's nose.) The 
Devil you won't. 

Dan — (quietly.) I have considered all of that, too. Just try it and 
you will stir up, such a feeling in Corinth that they will drive you on* 
of- this community. You can't do it and live here, Judge Strong. Y . 
have too much at stake to risk it; you won't have me arrested; you 
can't afford it, sir. 

Judge Strong — What evidence have you against me, you impnden!, 
f,al darned fool? 

' Dan— Yesterday Dr. Oldham received a letter from Mike McGowan, 
M^-s. Mulhall's brother, in reply to a request from the Dr. that he help 
pay the interest on the mortgage, which you hold. He. wrote us that he 
paid you $850 the day that he was leaving town, just after the. burial 
of Jack Mulhall. You, sir, were to fix up the papers and present them 
to his sister as a surprise. He said, you being an elder in the church. 



THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 21 

that he trusted you. And here you have been taking every cent that 
this poor family could earn as interest on their already paid mortgage. 
I feel sure that these good people, for my sake and for the sake of all 
Christ loving people, will keep this matter quiet — providing yoa sir — 
return the mortgage and every cent of money that has been paid you 
as interest. 

(Mrs. Mulhall exclaims at intervals and shakes her fist at the 
Judge. The Judge laughs nervously.) 

Judge Strong — Ah! — ha — ah — haii— what proof have you but the 
word of a villanious Irish man? Ha! a long way that would go against 
me— for thirty years an elder in Strong Memorial Church . 

Dan — (seizing him by the collar.) Judge Stronge, I am sorry for 
you that you are so hardened by sucii deeds that you cannot see the 
seriousness of tne situation. Your banker. Colonel Dunwood, cashed 
a draft for Mike McGowan with his gold and certifies the very next 
day tnis gold was deposited to your credit. Dr. Oldham and I have 
been to see him and he says that he can produce sufficient evidence to 
i.end you wiiere you belong. 

Judge Strong — (very nervous but impudent). You are a fool — a 
confounded fool. Some preacher you are, you Ozark backwoodser. You 
have disgraced our Christian cause by too much concern for this Irish 
Catnoiic family; then you suddenly became deeply interested in t.iai 
outcast of a Conner's girl; and now I hear that you, the Minister of 
Strong Memorial Church, are paying court to that nurse gal, Hope 
Farwell. She is not a decent woman or she would not associate with 
tne people she does. She has never been to church since coming here. 
Ah! It's not very strong in the faith ye are, or you wouldn't be S3 
easily led astray. If you would attend some of the meetings of our 
Ladies' Aid and hear what they have to say about these women, you 
would get your eyes opened. Now here you come to the height of your 
impudence by accusing your Elder of theft. You shall answer for tais, 
hear me! You shall answer for it. 

Dan — And you, Judge Strong, shall answer for your insults to my 
friends, these good women. At present you shall not mention them 
again. I have been speaking in the interest of Mr. McGowan. Confine 
\^ou remarks to that subject, please. 

Ju'dge Strong — Too long I have been an Elder and faithful member 
of Strong Memorial for any one to do me any harm. I have no further 
remarks to make and as for you — young man — I might as well tell you 
that your time is about up in Corinth. I'll take mighty good care that 
you don't get another church in our brotherhood. I'll show you that 
preachers get along better when they attend to their own affairs. 
(starts to leave.) 

Dan — I cannot believe, Judge Strong, that you will force my 
friends to take this matter into court, but we will do so if I do not re- 
ceive from you by night the proper papers, and every cent that you 
have stolen from Mrs. Mulhall. (Judge Strong exits shaking cane at 
Dan. Mrs. Mulhall rolls up her sleeves and shakes her fist at the 
Judge.) 

CURTAIN. 



22 THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 

Act IV. 

SCENE — Dan's study at night. The furnishings of the room con- 
sist of a bookcase, many books, library table, waste basket, lighted 
lamp, easy chairs, piano, fishing outfit in one corner of the room. 

Dan is seated at the table working on a manuscript, which he 
writes, reads and throws in the waist basket. He looks very much 
fatigued. Dr. Abbot enters and a look of glad surprise comes on his 
face. 

Dr. Abbott — Heilo, Parson. Excuse my intrusion without knocking. 
I have a drive to make and it is such a beautiful night I thought that 
you would like to go along and be my hitching post. 

Dan — Thank you, Harry, but I am expecting an important caller 
to-night so I must stay at home. Besides I haven't been able to make 
my notes on my sermon yet. Harry, this Christian Ministry is a puzzle 
to me at times. 

Dr. Abbott — (laughing aloud.) From your looks you evidently need 
to have something fixed. What is it, liver? 

Dan — Not mine! I don't believe that I have one. 

Dr. Abbott — (seating himself, fills pipe, smokes.) You dont need 
to have one in order to suffer from liver troubles. Speaking profess- 
ionally, my opinion is that you suffer more from other peoi^lea troables 
than from your ov. n. 

Dan— And what do you, pv-;^=cribo when it is >hi other feilovv's? 

Dr. Abbott— Oh, there's a d fference of opinion in the professioxi. 
Thf: eld Dr. for .distance would pre ,. ibe a split namhoo and a can of 
flies for bait. 

Dan — (smiling.) And you? 

Dr. Abbott — Just a pipe and a book. 

Dan — (sadly.) I fear your treatment would not agree with my 
constitution. 

Dr. Abbott — Pardon me, Brother Matthews. I meant no slur upon 
your personal convictions — touching — 

Dan — (interrupting sharply). Brother Matthews. I thought that we 
had agreed that I was to be only Dan to you. It is bad enough to be 
dodged and shunned by every one in town without you rubbing it in. 
As for my personal convictions, they have nothing to do with the case. 
In fact, my system does not permit me to have personal convictions. 

Dr. Abbott — This system of your's seems to be in a bad way to- 
night, Dan. What is wrong with it? 

Dan — Wrong with it? Wrong with my system? Man, alive. Don't 
you know that this is heresy? What can be wrong with my system? 
Doesn't it relieve me of the responsibility of right and wrong? Relieve 
me of personal convictions; make goodness my profession? I am paid 
for being good. My system says that your pipe and perhaps your book 
are bad — are sinful. I have nothing to do with it. I only obey and 
draw my salary. 

Dr. Abbott — (soothingly.) Oh, well, there's the old Dr.'s remedy. 
It's probably better. 

Dan — (growlingly.) I tried that the other day. 

Dr. Abbott — Worked, didn't it? 



THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 23 

Dan— (grinning.) At first the effects seemed to be verv beneficial 
later I found that it slightly aggravated the complaint. 

Dr. Abbott— (smiling). Suppose you try a little physical exercise 
working in the garden or — 

Dan— (in mock tragic.) Suicide, (both laugh heartily.) 

Dr. Abbott — I guess I have located your liver trouble, alright. 
When are the elders to call? 

Dan — To-night. Did you know? 

Dr. Abbott— (nodding). .1 have been expecting it for several days. 
I guess that you are about the only one in Corinth who hasn't been. 

Dan — Why didn't you tell me? 

Dr. Abbott — If I can avoid it I never tell a patient of a coming 
operation, until it is time to operate, then it is all over before they 
have time to get nervous. 

Dan — (shudder). I have certainly been on the table today. 1 be- 
lieve that I ought to talk it out with some one. 

Dr. Abbott-^I believe that I have heard all of the wicked gossip 
that is going. I am afraid of it, Dan. You'll have to be mighty careful. 
I know how you feel. All that you say of the church system is true- 
too true. You haven't seen the worst of it yet, by a good deal. 

Dan — Do you suppose that Miss Farwell will be made to suffer be- 
cause of her interest in that poor girl? 

Dr. Abbott — If Miss Farwell continues to live with Grace Conner 
at Mrs. Mulhall's, there is not a respectable home in this town that 
v.'ill receive her. 

Dan — (warmly.) .My God! Are the people blind? Can't the churcli 
see what a beautiful— what a Christ like thing she is lioing? 

Dr. Abbott — You know Grace Conner's history. What reason is 
there to think that it will be any different in Miss Farwell's case, so 
far as the attitude of the community is concerned? 

Dan — (walking the floor.) Then am 1 to understand that my friend 
ship with Miss Farwell will mean — this is terrible Harry. 1 can't be- 
lieve it; it is the spirit of it that matters. I never dreamed that such a 
thing could happen. That Grace Conner's life should be ruined by the 
wicked carelessness of these people is enough, but that they should 
take the same attitude toward Miss Farwell. simply because she is 
seeking to do the Christian thing that the church will not do, is — I 
tell you it's monstrous. 

Dr. Abbott — Yes, 1 know, Dan, but some people will gossip you 
knew. So it has been since the world began. But, Dan, I feel that you 
have had enough for today, old boy. 

(Dr. Abbott rises, pats Dan on the schoulder then goes to piano and 
plays. Dan crosses and stands gazing out of the window. Dr. Oldham 
enters unobserved and sits down. When the music ceases both turn 
and see Dr. Oldham.) 

Dan — (shaking hands.) Good evening Dr., Mighty glad to see you. 
Harry, you have done me good, your music has given me faith, hope 
and peace. 

Dr. Abbott — (reaching for his hat and gloves.) Really I never in- 
tended stopping two seconds. I have another call to make yet to- 
night. I'm sorry that I can't spend the evening with you and Dan. 



24 THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 

(Dr. Abbott says good night and exits.) 

Dr. Oldham — (turning to Dan). I thought you would be needing me, 
Dan. 

Dan — So you have heard then? 

Dr. Oldham — Yes, yes, you know Martha belongs to the Ladies 
Aid. 

Dan — Weil, Dr., I wish you would tell me — what I have done or 
not done? For what shall J blame myself? My ministry according to 
the teachings of Jesus Christ is so dear to me, and now I am cast 
out in this fashion. How do you see it. Dr. 

Dr. Oldham — It is your blindness and goodness, boy. I always 
knew that it would come. 

Dan — You have always known? 

Dr. Oldham — Yes. For a half of a century I have observed t'ae 
spirit of this institution, mind you not the spirit of all the people in 
this institution. There are some people like Judge Strong in everv 
church. They worship an institution, not a God. Dan. you have done 
more good in this community than you realize, but at the same time 
you have stirred up the wrath of the Devil. Why, boy. don't you 
know that he has long ago appointed Judge Strong as his assistant here 
in Corinth? (They both laugh.) 

Dan— But what am I to do. Dr.? (holding up large envelope.) Here 
is my resignation to Strong Memorial Church. 

Dr. Oldham — Well there are r.til! other churches. 
Dan — You mean — 

Dr. Oldham — I mean that yci "r- not the only preacher that has 
been talked about by this church, c.nd branded by the official board 
with the mark of the devil, in the name of the Lord. 

Dan — Dr., is this the Ministry? I have done nothing wrong. (Hold- 
ing up another envelop.) This is a refusal to a church in Chicago. 
Can't you see what this has done for me? I'm done with it. I'm going 
back to the hills to open the mine on Dewy Bald and in this way help 
to serve mankind. There, Dr., I can worship God in the true spirit. 

(A knock is heard.) 

Dr. Oldham — Hush! I shall just move my chair back here if you 
don't mind. (Moves to an obscure corner of the room.) 

Dan — (opening the door). Come in. Brother Jordan, come in. 
(Elder Jordan enters greatly agitated, drops cane, trembles, speaks 
in a weak voice.) 

Elder Jordan — I-I-came--about Brother Strong, you know. 
Dan — Yes? 

Elder Jordan — A bad business, Brother Matthev/s. Too bad, too 
bad. Poor Brother Strong. Brother Matthews, I want to ask you to 
use your influence with these people to keep this sad affair from get- 
ting out. Do you think that they will insist on bringing — ah — ahem — 
on Brother Strong if he complies to your request ? 

Dan — And why should you wish this matter kept a secret? 

Elder Jordan — (blankly). Why? Why? Why? Why, on account of 
the church, of course. Judge Strong is one of our leaders — and an 
elder. He has been for years. It would ruin us — ruin us. 



THE CALLING OP DAN MATTHEWS 25 

Dan — Nevertheless he is a thief. 

Elder Jordan — (trembling). Brother Matthews — Brother Matthews 
— I — protest. Such language applied to an elder is unchristian, you 
know the scriptures. 

Dan — Is it not true? 

Elder Jordan — Ahem? Ahem! Brother Strong may have made an — 
ah — mistake, may have — ah — done wrong, but the church, the church, 
we must think of the good name of the church. Coming so soon after 
the revival too. 

Dan — Am I to understand then that the church will keep this man 
in his place as an elder? That you will protect him when you know 
hie true character? 

Elder Jordan — (staring blankly). Why, why, how could we get 
along without him? 

Dan — How can you get along with him? 

Elder Jordan — But there isn't a man in Corinth, who has done so 
much for the missionary cause. No, no we must be more careful, 
Brother Matthews. But really, I must be going Brother Matthews. 

Dan — Then for the sake of his contributions and because of his 
position in the community, the church will shield him? 

Elder Jordan — (squirming uneasily). Really, I must be going. 

Dan — Is that what you mean? 

Elder Jordan — Why — I don't think for the good of our church here 
in Corinth and for the good of the cause, that it would be a good 
policy to make this matter public. Brother Strong will be here pres- 
ently to make restitution. We must be charitable and forgiving. 
Brother Matthews, you must not be too hard on him. Are these people 
— ah — determined to push the matter? 

Dan — No. All they want is that which belongs to them. I was 
simply asking to see how the church would look upon it when it 
touches an elder. POLICY? You have explained it clearly. 

Elder Jordan — (stifly as the danger is over). Ahem! Ahem! 1 fear 
Brother Matthews, that you are not— ah — not — entirely in sympathy 
with our brotherhood. Ahem! Ahem! the tone of your sermons has 
beeni may say, ah — questioned by a good many of us, and your atti- 
tude toward the board has not been as cordial as we feel that we have 
a right to expect. 

Dan — Do you speak from personal experience, sir. 

Elder Jordan — Ah! No. Indeed not, Brother Matthews, but Brother 
Strong has felt for sometime past that you — ah — ahem — have treated 
him rather coldly. A lack of harmony between a pastor and an elder 
is very bad — ah — very bad. And so considering everything — we — that 
is Brother Strong — that is the church board think best that your 
relations with Memorial Church shall be severed. 

Dan — (quietly). And when was the action taken? 

Elder Jordan — The day before the revival closed. We wished to 
have the benefit of Brother Sigma's advice before he left. He met 
with us and we considered the matter very carefully — ah — ahem — very 
prayerfully. I was appointed to tell you. 

Dan — Of course the board will give me a letter? 

Elder Jordan — Ahem! Ahem! we ah — discussed that also, and we 



26 THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 

feel that we cannot recommend you to any church in our brotherhood. 
It would be very damaging to us to so, very damaging. 

Dan — Is it charged that my teachings have been false to the 
doctrines of Christianity as taught by Christ? 

Elder Jordan — I cannot discuss that, Brother Matthews. They 
are not such teachings as our brotherhood wants. Really, Brother 
Matthews, I must be going. 

Dan — Does the church, sir, believe that my character is bad? 

Elder Jordan — No, sir. No, sir. But you have really been — ah — un- 
judicious. There has been so much talk, you know. 

Dan — Who has talked? 

Elder Jordan — These things follow a man through life. It would 
reflect upon us to recommend a man of bad repute. 

Dan — For the same reason that you keep in a high office in the 
church, a man, who is an unrepentabie thief. 

Elder Jordan — (rising). Really, Brother Matthews, I cannot listen 
to such words about our elder — really, I must he going. Here come? 
Brother Strong now. (foototsps are heard.) 

Dan — I beg your pardon. I was thinking aloud. Stay, Brother Jor- 
dan. Judge Strong and I won't keep you v/aiting long. 

(Eider sits again; Dr. Oidham, unobserved, chuckles and grins his 
disgust throughcut the conversation.) 

Judge Strong — (haughtily entering). Weil, here are your papeis. 
'. suppose that Brother Jordan has told you that your services here 
were no longer desired. Eh! Heh! A nice business you have made of 
yourself. 

Eider Jordan — Really f must be going, 

Dan — Wait just a minute. Judge Strong, you are the only man 
with whom I am not at peace. I cannot leave Corinth with anything 
between us. 

Judge Strohg — (impudently — . Well? 

Dan — I wish to ask a favor, sir, one that I am sure you will grant. 

Judge Strong — (arrogantly). Well, out with it. It's growing late 
and I do not care to be detained longer by your foolishness. 

Elder Jordan — Ahem! Hem! Yes, Brother Matthews, we must be 
going. 

'Dan — You will remember sir, the last time that I saw you, that you 
made grave charges against three women, who are my friends. 

Judge Strong — I repeated only the common — 

Dan — Wait please. This is a matter between you and me. Won't 
you please retrace those words? 

Judge Strong — Stand out of my way, you fool, (trying to get to 
the door). I have no time for this, sir. 

Dr. Oldham — (aside to himself). The darned old fool. 

Judge Strong — I have absolutely nothing to take back, sir. If 
that is all I shall go. 

Elder Jordan — Yes — yes,-ah— heh — 

Dan — (fiercely). NO! That is not all. (Dan collars the Judge and 
stands ready to strike.) 



THE CALLING OF DAN MATTHEWS 27 

Judge Strong — What do you mean? Take your hands off of me! 

Dan — Perhaps you will understand when I tell you that I LOVE 
HOPE FARWELL AND INTEND TO MAKE HER MY WIFE. 

(Elder Jordan opens his mouth wide and throws up his hands in 
astonishment.) 

Dan — You unspeakable cur, 1 have felt sorry for you because of 
your warped and twisted nature; because you seem so incapable of 
being anything better than you are. I have given you a chance to act 
like a man, and you — you laugh at me. You have escaped from your 
theft from that poor widow; you have escaped from, God knows, how 
many crimes. But now in the name of the good people that you have 
slandered and in the name of those that you have ruined, I'm going to 
give you what a contemptible rascal as you deserves. 

Elder Jordan — I'm going — ah — (exits backwards.) 

(Dan throws Judge Strong to the floor; Judge yells "HELP!" un- 
til he is beat lifeless; Dr. Oldham watches, much amused; Dan draws 
back and Dr. Oldham goes to him). 

Dr. Oldham — You've made a mighty good job of it, lad, a mighty 
good job. Lord, how I envied you. Help me out with him and I'll 
chuck him in his buggy and take him home. Won't it be fun to tell 
what an accident our honorable Judge has met? (laughs loudly. Hold- 
ing out his hand to Dan). Accept my congratulations, boy, and my 
wishes that you and Hope may happily travel for many, many, many 
years to come over the trail that is "Nobody Knows How Old." 

CURTAIN. 



I IRRARY OF CONGRESS 

Smmmm 

018 484 029 7; 




